Proud to Be an American

I am proud to live in America. I am happy for my luck to be born in the greatest country on earth. I accept America's flaws and foibles, and consider them minor compared to her many positive attributes. We have freedom. Not complete freedom. Complete freedom is chaos leading straight to anarchy. Laws are a framework, a structure for society.

The structure of laws, and yes, fear of punishment is absolutely necessary to hold society together. The evil nature of people must be kept in check for any society to thrive. Just like a child who knows no rules, a citizenry lacking laws grows anxious. A society that is too lax breeds disorder. If those citizens who are inherently evil, are not regularly kept in check, they will do their evil doings on those citizens who are mainly good.

American criminal and civil punishments are generally reasonable. Although we allow the death penalty for the most serious crimes, we do not cut off the hands of thieves. And, although a creditor may seize a debtor's property, debtors do not go to prison.

The taxes that we pay are fair and reasonable compared to other countries. Consider Sweden -- 59% personal income tax rate; or Aruba at 60%. Average personal income tax in the U.S. is 39%; England's is 45%.

We are a democratic republic. Americans can participate in a general election, or choose not to vote at all. Some countries require their citizens to vote or be subject to a fine or imprisonment. We elect our politicians to pass laws that benefit the most people most of the time. If those politicians fail to do so, we can choose to vote them out the next term. We are free to vote our conscience, or not to vote at all.

There are many more reasons to love America. I like the mantra - "Love it or Leave it". I firmly believe that it is the duty of every U.S. resident to respect our society and uphold the laws of our country. We were once considered a "melting pot" with people from all over the world coming together to form our great society. And although, it is just fine for each of us to honor our roots - we are all Americans.

Stand proud.